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Quote Unquote Is Definitely Not So Fun And Other Linguistic Pet Peeves

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“Quote/Unquote” is Definitely Not “So Fun” and Other Linguistic Pet Peeves
 
By Dr. Robert A. Fowkes (The Old Guy)
All Rights Reserved
 
Yes, the Internet can be a wonderful place for information and communication. But it, along with a lot of other things all around us is, in my opinion, allowing some very sloppy and illogical usage of the English language to become commonplace. Let me make myself clear. I’m not talking about the special language that text messaging has foisted upon us due, in part, to the need for speed and brevity. Things like “RUOK? PCM. CU L8R. THNQ” were born out of necessity before unlimited texting was affordable and widespread. Besides, time is money – sometimes. And I’m not talking about the occasional butchering of the language by those for whom English is not their first language. After all, (a) English isn’t exactly the most logical of languages to a non-native speaker and (b) I certainly have admiration for those who speak and write English (as a second language) far better than I do as my “first” language. There’s no way I would be as proficient if the tables were turned. 

What I’m talking about are some things that seem to have worked their way into our language while not really making any sense at all. High on my list is the (mis)use of the term “Quote/Unquote.” People, quotes are meant to be placed around things and not just hanging in dead space! (I like the term “air quotes” to represent these orphan bits of punctuation.) When I hear someone talk about, say, “The quote/unquote greatest player” instead of the correct usage – “The quote, greatest player, unquote” I cringe. The former is stating “” greatest player and the latter (correct) use states “greatest player.” Please – ditch the air quotes, people. Air Jordan, maybe. Air Quotes, nyet!
 
And when did people suddenly forget that “fun” is a noun and not an adjective in most proper usage? “So fun?” Whatever became of “so much fun?” Ouch!  What's the rush?  This is one instance where a four letter word would be greatly appreciated.  I realize that language is ever evolving but this one really gets under my skin and makes me wonder where we are heading. (Ain’t it the truth?) And when Steve Jobs rolled out the latest iPod and proclaimed it “the funnest iPod yet!” I began to think that his anti-corporate jeans (and genes) might be going to his head. (Talk about mixed metaphors!) At least he didn’t say, “The quote/unquote funnest iPod yet” so maybe there’s still hope for Mr. quote Cool unquote.
 
And don’t get me started on the improper use of “your” for “you’re” and other such things. Unfortunately the rudimentary spell checkers on most web sites aren’t grammar checkers so this happens a lot (not “alot” or “allot!”) It’s bad enough that most message writers don’t even bother to use a spell checker at all. Don’t they realize that if they want to be taken seriously they should at least present themselves in the best light possible? The moral of the story is, I guess, that when people gather to discuss topics of mutual interest it never hurts to present oneself as professionally as possible. With so much information flying about on forums, blogs and other venues one often has a brief moment to make a point and misguided grammar can leave an impression that might not exactly be the one you hoped to convey. Just some friendly advice.
 
Are we having (so) fun yet?   ;-)